A report in Wirtschaftswoche indicates that RTL Deutschland is considering substantial job cuts, potentially affecting 800 to 1,000 positions within its German operations. This reduction could impact nearly 14% of the Cologne-based media group's 7,500 employees. The plans, though unconfirmed, are expected to encompass the entire RTL portfolio in Germany, including the main RTL channel, VOX, n-tv, and the streaming platform RTL+.
This potential restructuring occurs against a backdrop of declining traditional TV consumption and persistent challenges in the advertising market, factors that have impacted RTL's financial performance. Increased competition from US-based streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ has further intensified the pressure.
The report suggests RTL's management has been in negotiations with the works council regarding a new social plan to facilitate the restructuring process. Complete closure of smaller business units is anticipated, potentially resulting in compulsory redundancies. The scale of the proposed cuts points to a more extensive organizational restructuring than previous cost-cutting initiatives. The company's leadership is reportedly scheduled to review the plan, with employees to be briefed soon. According to Reuters, a company spokesperson stated they do not comment on speculation. WDR reported that RTL is anticipated to release a statement soon.